Orthodontic Assistant Practice Exam 2026 – Complete Prep Guide

Severe malocclusion is a common reason for orthodontic intervention because it refers to the misalignment of the teeth and how they fit together, which can lead to various dental issues. When the teeth are not properly aligned, it can result in difficulty with chewing, speaking, and maintaining oral hygiene. Additionally, severe malocclusion can contribute to uneven wear on the teeth, jaw pain, and can influence facial aesthetics. Orthodontic treatment aims to correct these issues by repositioning the teeth and jaws, thus improving both function and appearance.

While dental decay, prolonged thumb sucking, and soft tissue recession can all affect overall oral health, they do not specifically relate to the alignment of teeth or the bite relationship in the same direct manner as severe malocclusion does. Dental decay primarily concerns the health of the teeth themselves, thumb sucking is more about habit and its impact can vary in severity, and soft tissue recession pertains to the gums rather than the alignment of the teeth.